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Sancerre: The town of Sancerre is a remarkable landmark. The hill on which it is situated rises up from the landscape as an old solitary mini-volcano (which it isn't, it is only an accidental geological elevation). The region of Sancerre is world wide known for its excellent white wines. The landscape is covered by vineyards. The typical "smoky" flavor of the Sauvignon grape that is grown in this area, together with a part Pinot Noir grapes, characterizes the taste of the Sancerre wines. Sancerre is identified with white wine. But, there is also a red Sancerre. It is much less known and even difficult to get outside of France . On the 2500 ha (6000 acres) of the local vineyards 125.000 hectoliters (3,302,000 gal) of white wine are produced and only 30.000 hl (792,500 gal) of red wine. The vineyards are located on the banks of the Loire River, where the soil's high iron content contributes to the rich structure, flavor and longevity of the wines.
Cepage: Pinot Noir.
About the Producer: Guillaume, Serge and Elizabeth Laporte are exceptional vignerons of this region. The Laporte vineyards are located on several different sites in Chavignol, a village/commune just northwest of the city of Sancerre and arguably the best place to grow Sauvignon Blanc. Laporte's properties are beautifully exposed on the hillsides. Terroir is important in Sancerre. Laporte's vineyards are planted in parcels of caillottes which is a stony limestone with little soil and also in parcels of argile-calcaire which is clayey limestone. Each soil type contributes to the wine: caillottes produce wines that are forwardly fruity with finesse, argile-calcaire creates wines that are structured and long-lived. It is just about the best combination you can have in a Sancerre. Harvest is done by hand and vinified parcel by parcel to assure that the individual flavors and aromas are accentuated.
Tasting Notes: A red Sancerre is rare and worth looking for. The wine is light but intense, delicately fruity and mature in a sort of frivolous way. Drink this red wine cooled like white wine (12°C or 53°F) with sushi, a salad or chicken - delicious!!!
Recommended Food Pairings: This wine is amazingly food friendly - pairing easily with turkey, duck, Boeuf Bourgognon, grilled red meats. Awards: Coup de Coeur - La Revu du Vin de France; Bronze Medal ; Gold Medal - Guide Hachette 2009 See also from this Producer: Sancerre (white)
For more information about this producer: website: http://www.domainesergelaporte.com |
